The Baltimore Orioles have had a tough start to the season, but much of it is beyond their control. Plagued by some of the worst injury luck in the league, the team entered Friday sitting four games under .500 at 20-24. One area hit especially hard has been the pitching rotation, forcing the bullpen into heavier-than-expected workloads.

Adding to the challenge, the bullpen itself isn't at full strength. All-Star closer Ryan Helsley is currently on the 15-day injured list with right elbow inflammation, leaving a significant gap in late-game situations. To help shore up their depth, the Orioles made a move on Friday, acquiring right-handed pitcher Eduarniel Nunez from the Athletics in exchange for cash considerations.

Nunez has been optioned to Triple-A Norfolk. In a corresponding roster move, right-hander Christian Roa was designated for assignment. The Orioles' 40-man roster now stands at 40 players.

Nunez originally came to the Athletics as part of a four-player package from the San Diego Padres in exchange for Mason Miller and JP Sears at last year's trade deadline. While he was considered the fourth prospect in that deal, he was also the closest to MLB action. Last season, he appeared in six games for the A's, allowing eight runs on nine hits while struggling with command and hitting two batters. The Athletics hoped he would take a step forward in 2026, but that hasn't materialized.

This season in the minors, Nunez owns a 4.61 ERA over 13 2/3 innings, and command remains an ongoing issue. Perhaps most concerning, his four-seam fastball has seen a significant velocity drop—averaging 98 mph last year but sitting at just 95 mph so far in 2026. The Orioles clearly believe they can help him rediscover his form and add much-needed depth to a pitching staff in need of reinforcements.